MUSIGA engages UNESCO to propel Highlife Music for Economic Empowerment

The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) leadership has held a strategic meeting with Mr. Edmond Mukaila, UNESCO’s Country Representative for Ghana, to discuss the inclusion of Ghana’s iconic Highlife music on UNESCO’s prestigious List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. The anticipated enlistment, scheduled for December 2025, is expected to place Highlife firmly on the global cultural map, while driving significant economic opportunities for Ghanaian musicians and the nation as a whole.

Present at the meeting were MUSIGA President Bessa Simons, 2nd Vice President Abena Ruthy, General Secretary S.K. Agyemang, and Director of Communications and Special Projects Ahuma Bosco Ocansey. Also present was Carl Ampah, Culture Specialist with the UNESCO office in Ghana and the Head of Ram Media Concepts, Augustine Mark, producers of the upcoming She Rhythms Ghana festival, proudly hosted by MUSIGA from December 4 to 6, 2025. The She Rhythms Ghana festival aims at celebrating and uplifting Ghana’s rich musical heritage, especially the contributions of women in music.

Mr. Edmond Mukaila underscored the importance of the UNESCO listing beyond cultural celebration, emphasizing its potential economic impact. “The enlistment of Highlife is a powerful opportunity not just for cultural preservation but for economic empowerment. When Highlife is mentioned anywhere in the world, it will be synonymous with Ghana. We must be ready to harness this connection to generate tangible benefits for musicians and the Ghanaian economy,” Mr. Mukaila stated.

Reflecting on the partnership with UNESCO, MUSIGA President Bessa Simons expressed deep appreciation for the ongoing collaboration. “Our relationship with UNESCO is invaluable. The support we receive fortifies our efforts to preserve, promote, and sustainably develop Ghana’s musical heritage. The UNESCO recognition of Highlife will elevate our artists on the world stage and create new pathways for growth and international collaboration,” she said.

MUSIGA’s engagement with UNESCO reaffirms the commitment to securing Ghana’s cultural treasures for future generations, while leveraging global platforms to boost the music industry’s viability and create lasting socioeconomic impact.